Rockledge Elementary School Holds Parade of Nations

Thursday, June 9, Rockledge Elementary School held its first Parade of Nations. International Faculty member, Luz Rossi, and a small committee organized this event. According to Rossi, each year the school alternates International Day and Americana Day, but this year the school wanted to do more to celebrate the diversity in its student body.

At the committee’s request, parents provided their own native clothing and flags for the parade. They also provided descriptions of the clothing, including its origins, fabrics, and design. Descriptions also included where and when it would be worn in their native countries and any traditions that were associated with the clothing. Parents also provided music from their country to be played as they marched in the parade.

Principal Amy Schott, said they chose a fashion show because, “it lends itself to sharing other information about traditions.” Schott also said their primary goals in this activity were “to help students feel pride in their culture, and learn more about their classmates and their cultural backgrounds.”

Students were extremely excited and seemed to have a great time at this event.

In all 27 countries were represented including the United States, China, India, Pakistan, Morocco, Ghana, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Scotland and Germany. In all countries on five continents were represented including North and South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. There were 80 students, 20 parents, many smaller siblings and five teachers who participated in the parade.